This is a contribution from a Swampscott High School student, as part of the Swampscott Tides Big Blue Student News selection. 

Story by Sasha Fafel

The National Geography Bee made its way to Swampscott High School this year, thanks to History Department Head Brian Kirkland and Principal Emily Zotto.

Senior Liam Donovan Walnut represented Swampscott at the national event, taking 15th place overall. The National Geography Bee, an annual geographic knowledge competition on geographic knowledge, was held on May 16 in Cambridge at the Sheraton Commander Hotel. 

“He represented himself, his family, and Swampscott High School with flying colors,” Kirkland said. 

Prior to the national competition, the high school hosted two preliminary phases to single out a Swampscott high school champion. 

“The second phase consisted of an oral, 11-round format competition where ten finalists competed in a high-energy environment,” said Kirkland.

Donovan Walnut became the Swampscott High School winner, automatically landing a spot at the national competition due to his high score.

At the National Geography Bee, Donovan Walnut competed with the top 38 students out of a pool of 6,000. He finished in 15th place nationally, according to the National Geography Bee results. 

Donovan Walnut will attend Syracuse University in the fall for political science.